Animals of Madagascar

Madagascar has the most unique combination of plants (flora) and animals (fauna) in the entire world. Out of the over 10, 000 different types of plants and animals, over 80% occur exclusively within Madagascar. The island itself has been isolated for over 70 million years and the animals range in origin from Africa, Asian and South American.

Madagascar is most well known to scientists for the many species of lemur among many other mammals. The species are incredibly diverse and inhabit many different ecosystems. The lemur species have flourished because of the lack of natural competitors such as monkeys. Only one primate called the aye-aye exists on the island apart from humans. It was thought to be another species of lemur until recently. Tenrecs are also very common on the island. They are medium sized insectivores. Rodent populations in Madagascar are minimal compared to the plethora of other species. The Malagasy Giant Rat is an exception and was recently put on the endangered animals list. There is a wide variety of bat populations on Madagascar, however many are not native to the island due to their ability to travel long distances. Cat-like animals classified under the Eupleridae are quite prominent on the island as well.

Over one third of the over 300 bird species in Madagascar are endemic (only found in Madagascar). There are five whole bird families that are found strictly within Madagascar and the surrounding islands.

There is not much variety in terms of reptiles in Madagascar. The few species that have travelled to the island have evolved into over 260 distinct species. Chameleons are the prominent reptile although other major families include geckoes, skinks and iguanas. There are over 60 different species of snakes, however interestingly none of whom are poisonous to man. Five different species of tortures can also be found. More fascinating though is the great Nile crocodile. Unfortunately it has been placed on the endangered species list. This is a result of the high demand for its skin. Over 150 spectacular different amphibians such as frogs and salamanders can be found in the primary forest, nearly all of which are endemic.

Many endemic species of beetles and moths can be found within the forests including the famous stick insect and preying mantis. One of the more frightful insects comes in the form of the giant Madagascar hissing cockroach.

The seas surrounding Madagascar host a large variety of marine life. There are miles of coral reef that surround the island which hosts thousands of species of fish. Sea turtles can be found in four species although many are hunted for food by locals. Off the south coast humpback whales are bred by wildlife experts.

It was great to finally get insight into how many wonderful animals are endemic to Madagascar. I was shocked to learn how many species have protected themselves against human disturbances. The animals were able to protect themselves quite well where the plant life has struggled considerably. New species are being discovered constantly and I find this very edifying. Hopefully the government will be able to apply more restrictions in regards to hunting and deforestation in order to protect our wildlife.

Madagascar Ecology

Of Madagascar’s 10, 000 different plant and animal species, over 90% are exclusive to Madagascar. Humans have damaged the majority of the wildlife in Madagascar and only 18% of the ecosystems remain untouched. Many species have been killed off over the 200 years humans have inhabited Madagascar including the world’s largest birds and many species of lemur. Habitat destruction due to industrialization and hunting remain to be the two greatest causes.

The eastern side of the island produces some of the most beautiful tropical rain forests in the world. The western side produces a much different type of forest in the form of dry thorn forests. The forests of the west have been preserved much better that those on the east coast. This is thought to be due to the high population density on the east coast compared to the relatively low population density on the west coast.

The deforestation occurring more recently is a result mining operations which were discussed on the previous entry. Slash and Burn activity has been present in all types of forest. This is when the land is stripped and burned to create fertile areas for farming. It creates usable soil in a very short period of time and hence its popularity. The side effect is the soil may erode quickly and prove useless. This has been common for many decades and the endangered species feel constant pressure as a result. This eroded soil creates a great amount of runoff into streams and rivers which increases the cloudiness and sediment value.

The World Conservation Society is making a huge attempt to protect these species; including opening an exhibit at the Bronx Zoo to raise awareness of this issue.

I was very pleased to hear that attempts are being made to protect these great forest. However, I was disappointed to hear that so many million acres have already been destroyed. I feel that the destruction of these forests is not necessary because the land does not hold and great benefit over other lands (ie. no precious stones, oil etc.). I was surprised to read the Madagascar actually has deserts on the western coast and to no surprise these lands are greatly untouched. I am optimistic that many species can be saved and because the forests are so rich in species, they will be able to grow back where they once were.